TBAA Delegation Visits Hualien to Strengthen Taiwan-U.S. Ties and Global Partnerships

(中央社訊息服務20260417 16:54:04)A high-level delegation from the Taiwanese Benevolent Association of America (TBAA), led by President Joanne Chang, visited the Hualien County Government yesterday (April 13) to bolster grassroots diplomacy and international cooperation. The delegation, featuring chapter representatives from across the United States, was received by Deputy Mayor Yen Hsin-Chang on behalf of Mayor Hsu Chen-Wei. The meeting underscored the deep bonds between Hualien and the Taiwanese diaspora, focusing on sustainable tourism, economic collaboration, and community resilience.

During the meeting, Deputy Mayor Yen noted that overseas compatriots have long been regarded as the “mother of the revolution.” Since the severance of Taiwan-U.S. diplomatic ties in 1978, the diaspora has played a crucial role in grassroots exchanges and serves as an essential bridge connecting Taiwan with the world. He expressed his deepest respect for the community’s long-standing dedication and contributions.

Yen highlighted that Hualien, as the homeland of Indigenous peoples, serves as a model of ethnic integration where Indigenous, Hakka, Hoklo, and new immigrant communities coexist harmoniously—much like “sunlight, air, and water.” In addition to inviting the delegation to local events such as the Summer Festival and the Joint Aboriginal Harvest Festival, he noted the upcoming International Children’s Games (ICG) and the Club Crew World Championships (CCWC) scheduled for August and September. These events demonstrate Hualien’s successful international engagement, and Yen expressed hope that the TBAA would assist with promotional efforts in the United States.

Addressing post-disaster recovery, Yen thanked the TBAA for their steadfast support following past challenges. He emphasized that Hualien’s breathtaking scenery remains intact and its infrastructure continues to advance. “With the best air quality in the nation and world-class mountain-and-sea vistas, Hualien offers a safe, high-quality wellness experience,” Yen added. He urged the delegates to return to the U.S. as ambassadors for Hualien, sharing the “fragrance of the homeland air” and the “warmth of its soil” to encourage recurring tourism.

TBAA President Joanne Chang said that for 47 years, the organization has remained true to its mission: “Caring about Taiwan at all times, and serving fellow Taiwanese everywhere.” With 24 chapters nationwide, TBAA is currently expanding its scope by preparing a Taiwan-U.S. Economic Advisory Committee. This new body aims to integrate resources to help businesses navigate market trends and mitigate risks in an increasingly close bilateral trade environment. Chang praised Hualien’s “extraordinary resilience” following recent challenges and vowed to continue advancing substantive cooperation.

Former President Chanel Lee noted that Mayor Hsu’s 2024 visit to the United States for sister-city activities successfully forged new international links for Hualien, an initiative that received high praise from the overseas community. She added that these efforts were a key factor in inspiring the surge of donations that supported Hualien’s earthquake recovery later that year. Lee expressed her hope that both sides would maintain their exchanges to continue fostering awareness and understanding of Hualien within local communities across the United States.

The visit concluded with Deputy Mayor Yen presenting a gift of Hualien jade titled “Light of the Homeland,” symbolizing the diaspora’s role in illuminating Taiwan’s path on the global stage. The Hualien County Government reaffirmed its commitment to deepening its partnership with TBAA, inviting overseas compatriots to return home often to experience the region’s natural splendor and profound multicultural heritage.